Meta launches cheaper smart glasses without Ray-Ban

Meta has launched smart glasses under its own brand name, without the Ray-Ban partnership that defined its previous models, and the new glasses cost $80 less than previous versions. The new glasses come in three styles and multiple colors, including a collaboration with a socialite and reality TV star. Meta's previous partnership with Ray-Ban was valuable because Ray-Ban's established name and iconic designs made the smart glasses look like ordinary eyewear rather than unfamiliar tech gadgets. However, Meta faces a significant challenge with its smart glasses brand due to the company's history of privacy scandals, and recent reports indicate Meta is developing a facial recognition feature for the glasses.